10 Things to Avoid Before Applying for a Mortgage in 2018

If buying a house in 2018 is part of your new year’s resolution, you’ll want make sure that you avoid doing certain things to set yourself up for success. Here are 10 things to avoid before applying for a mortgage. Having a good credit score, along with other metrics that many people don’t think about, is key to getting approved for the house of your dreams.

Some of it is common sense. Check your credit report to understand your credit score and to make sure there isn’t any false or inaccurate information on it. Reduce debt. Increase savings so you’ll have the necessary down payment available.

Other items are less intuitive, such as not closing an old credit card account.

According to SmarterAssets.com, here are 10 things to avoid before applying for a mortgage in 2018.

Racking up new debt

Forgetting to check your credit reports

Falling behind on your bills

Maxing out your credit cards

Closing an old credit card account

Getting a new job

Making other major purchases

Marrying someone with bad credit (so much for romance!)

Co-signing on a loan

Making big deposits

Buying a home is a big purchase. Following these tips and being smart about your credit will help you move closer to achieving your home-buying dreams.